Summer is finally here and it’s time to hit the road (or water)!! CitySaheli has looked for the perfect weekend getaways, and our first stop is Newport Rhode Island. Once home to the Vanderbilts, this beautiful seaside city is only three hours away from Manhattan, and is famous for its mansions and breathtaking scenery. Newport was the ultimate summer scene during the Gilded Age and still maintains its lovely charm and sea appeal with beaches, sailboats, and wonderful restaurants.   Beware party seekers; night life shuts down promptly at 1 AM, so you will definitely get some much needed R&R on this trip after a full day of sailing, mansion touring and beach bumming.   Newport is CitySaheli’s top choice for a relaxing girl’s weekend.

Stay.

Looking for a quant inn, don’t overlook the Beech Tree Inn.  A short walk to the town, this charming Victorian offers spacious rooms, private baths and a famous morning breakfast.  The blueberry pancakes won’t disappoint.  If yon don’t want to break the bank – this spot is for you!

If an inn isn’t your style, opt for the more modern Hyatt Regency Newport located on Goat Island.  The Hyatt has a nice gym, outdoor pool overlooking the water, and offers a lovely and generous breakfast.  It is a short walk into the center of town and the hotel provides shuttle service to and from.    

If the weekend is about feeling like a Vanderbilt, check out Oceancliff Hotel.  Its spectacular ocean views are unforgettable.  Another luxurious spot is the Castle Hill Inn & Resort.  This hotel, named in Travel & Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels in the World, is Relais and Chateaux awarded and is perfect for a truly luxurious get away.

Play.

Most visit Newport to play like the rich and famous.  This means visiting the mansions and soaking in the opulence.  If you’re short on time and can’t visit them all, be sure to stop at the Breakers, Rosecliff and the Marble House.  You can get tickets for mansion tours here.

In addition to the mansion visits, take a stroll down the famous Cliff Walk and drive along Ocean Drive. 

 Both include breathtaking views you don’t want to miss!  You can also rent a trike or a scooter and take an adventurous tour.  This website offers good information on the different types of vehicles available.

Eat.

In Newport you find a wide array of cuisine that will suit any pallet.

 Chowder is a must when visiting New England’s coast and in Newport you will find some of the best!  Black Pearl Restaurant and the Cooke House are just two spots that will hit the spot. 

 Fluke offers outstanding small American plates and has something for every diner.  If you are looking for a different menu, Fluke is a great place to share outstanding meals. 

 If you feel like a small bite before walking the scenic Cliff walk, Spiced Pearat the Chanler Hotel is perfect.  It has beautiful views and is CitySaheli’s top choice for lunch.  Opt to sit on the terrace where you overlook the beach, ocean and green hillside.

 A girl’s trip isn’t complete without the perfect girl’s brunch.  Brunch at the Castle Hill Inn and Resort won’t disappoint.  After enjoying a delicious meal, walk around the stunning grounds to chat and take in the views.  You will see beautiful boats sailing into Newport. 

Castle Hill is the quintessential place to spend hours, so plan ahead for a long lazy brunch.  You won’t want to leave.

Last but not least, Del’s Lemonade is a signature of Rhode Island. You will see Del’s trucks all over, do make sure to complete your trip by trying this refreshing lemonade!

2 Comments For This Post

• Great article! You hit on some of the best spots to stay, eat and play in the beautiful “City by the Sea”.

  I’m returning for a visit next week and can’t wait to see some of my favorite spots: Newport Cliff Walk, the 10 Mile Ocean Drive, Fort Adams and some of the waterfront restaurants.

  You’re right, Newport is a perfect weekend getaway! For all who haven’t been, what are you waiting for?

  BY Newport Discovery Guide on June 12th, 2010 at 11:44 am

• Thank you very much for this awesome article. I’ve read id for a couple months now and perhaps they are always very informative. Thanks!

  BY Johnathon Rollin on August 21st, 2010 at 10:38 am

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